New Castle County Farm Bureau (NCCFB) members and guests gathered at Townsend Fire Hall on October 12, 2026, to celebrate the organization’s accomplishments over the past year and recognize some outstanding members.
Rising Star – Nick Adams
Nick Adams of Wilmington was recognized as the 2026 New Castle County Farm Bureau Rising Star Award honoree.
Adams has built a career in conservation, agricultural extension, agronomy, and grower support. In previous roles as a USDA Soil Conservationist and New Castle County Agriculture Extension Agent, he worked directly with farmers through conservation planning, crop management guidance, and educational outreach.
“His work has strengthened Delaware agriculture through conservation planning, crop management guidance, educational programs, on-farm outreach, and so much more,” NCCFB President Stewart Ramsey said while presenting the award.
Currently an AgriEdge Specialist with Syngenta, Adams helps growers identify agronomic solutions to improve efficiency and profitability. He also serves on the NCCFB Board of Directors and volunteers with the organization’s Beef & Beer Committee.
Adams also received tributes recognizing his achievement from the New Castle County Council and state elected officials.
Distinguished Service to Agriculture – Senator Kyra Hoffner
State Senator Kyra Hoffner of Dover received the 2026 New Castle County Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award for her service to Delaware agriculture.
As Vice Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Hoffner has worked to bring agricultural perspectives into legislative discussions and has engaged with farmers on issues affecting the industry.
Hoffner has worked closely with Delaware Farm Bureau on issues affecting farmers, including agricultural property reassessment, demonstrating her commitment to understanding how state policies impact farming operations.
“Through a willingness to listen, learn, and engage directly with those who work the land, she has become a trusted partner to Delaware’s agricultural community,” Ramsey said about the honoree.
Hoffner also received tributes from the New Castle County Council and state elected officials recognizing her service to agriculture.
Farm Family of the Year – The Meany Family
The Meany Family of Wilmington was named the 2026 New Castle County Farm Family of the Year in recognition of their multi-generation commitment to Delaware agriculture.
The family has more than 50 years of agricultural experience. Their operation grew from 45 acres to more than 1,200 acres at its height and today includes approximately 700 acres and an Angus beef herd.
“Their leadership has strengthened both the grain and dairy businesses, preserving Delaware’s last remaining milk processor and ensuring these historic operations continue serving the community,” Ramsey said.
Beyond their farming operation, the Meany family has supported numerous agricultural and community initiatives, including the Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation’s Milk Run. Their contributions to the industry have also earned statewide recognition, including a Worrilow Award for outstanding service to Delaware agriculture.
The Meany Family also received tributes from the New Castle County Council and state elected officials.
Livestock Rate of Gain Awards
Kim Klair, New Castle County Women’s Committee Chair, presented the Rate of Gain award recognizing 4-H and FFA members in New Castle County whose livestock achieved the highest rate of gain among animals shown at the Delaware State Fair.
Hadley Cook of Newark earned the highest rate of gain in swine with an average daily gain of 1.42 pounds.
For more information on New Castle County Farm Bureau, visit https://defb.org/about-us/counties/nccfb/.
